FlyWestair
Your free copy
March 2020
www.flywestair.com
Onwards and upwards in 2020. At Capricorn Private Wealth, we continuously evolve to provide you with a consistent level of service. No matter where you land this year, we are here to partner with you to achieve your goals. It’s what you value. It’s what we deliver.
Capricorn Private Wealth, a combined offering of Bank Windhoek Ltd and Capricorn Asset Management (Pty) Ltd, members of the Capricorn Group.
from the publisher
Stories in FlyWestair Magazine.
FIRE
This is us.
FlyWestair December 2019
is for Awesome... and Ads.
HOW WE FOUND OUR COVER STAR
Promoting and supporting conservation of the natural environment. A membership-based organisation established as a voluntary association to support and promote the interests of environmental NGOs and their work to protect Namibia’s environment, biodiversity and landscapes. The NCE currently has 65 members and associate members, comprising environmental NGOs and individuals running nationally significant environmental projects and programmes.
Xenia Ivanhoff-Erb
www.n-c-e.org
Anchor Sponsor:
THE TINY TOWN OF UIS
Iona FEATURED:
VOLUME 28 No 2 AUTUMN 2020
N$45.00 incl. VAT R45.00 incl. VAT
Skeleton Coast TRANSFRONTIER PARK
www.travelnewsnamibia.com
NETWORK
THE GREEN ECONOMY
2019/20
CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA
A R E N A M I B I A’ S C A R N I VO R E S AT R I S K?
A R E N A M I B I A’ S C A R N I VO R E S AT R I S K?
MINING AND THE
ENVIRONMENT
H U M A N -W I L D L I F E
CONFLICT
GA INING INSIGHTS INTO GAINING INSIGHTS INTO
2019
Venture Publications (Pty) Ltd. PO Box 21593 Windhoek Namibia info@venture.com.na
Also proudly supported by:
Coast GINNING AT THE
ON A STUDENT BUDGET
CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA
A lot of thought went into finding the perfect cover image for the March issue of FlyWestair Magazine. On the 21st of this month our nation will celebrate 30 years of independence. We spent hours combing through images on social media, hoping to find something that will signify the importance of this moment. After much scrolling, we discovered this picture on the Instagram of @gwerivintage, a high-end Namibian design collective. Some DM’s, a phone call and many Whatsapps followed. In a fun and exciting turn of events, we flew Lydia Hangula, and her amazing Namibian, jumpsuit to Windhoek with our FlyWestair flight from Ondangwa. Lydia, a 27-year old hailing from Okongo in the Ohangwena Region, was all too happy to share her love for Namibia with us. Photographed in Independence Avenue by one of our favourite photographers, Martin Amushendje, we the Venture team, Lydia and Martin, hope that you enjoy this celebration of Namibian Independence that we have placed on our cover.
BIRDING:
SNAKE EAGLES
Namibia
Vo l 2 8
To advertise in FlyWestair magazine contact fly@venture.com.na.
TRAVEL NEWS
A review of Namibian Trade and Industry
A
A Manufacturing Basket filled with Opportunities...
Namibia
NAMIBIA TRADE DIRECTORY 2019/20
Read this issue online!
www.flywestair.com
extraordinary Namibian stories. publishing. content generation. content marketing. print. film. digital.
CONTENT IS
are compiled by Venture Media’s content team, in partnership with Tribefire Studios and freelance contributors.
THE SECRET LIVES OF WILD ANIMALS
and also
by Tribefire Studios
1
contents
Table of
CONTENT IS FIRE
01
And collaboration is the future. FlyWestair Magazine is a compilation of Namibian stories sourced by Venture Media that entertain and surprise with interesting topics, introducing you to a new generation of trendsetters and Namibian influencers.
17
WELCOME ON BOARD
05
Read more about travelling with FlyWestair – a scheduled passenger service by Namibian-owned Westair, the first private company to achieve this historic milestone.
FLYWESTAIR DESTINATIONS
08
The journey is the destination. Introducing FlyWestair Safaris.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
11
Update your calendar with 2020’s must-attend events. Send us your event suggestion to fly@venture.com.na and we will be sure to feature it in upcoming issues. Please note that event suggestions need to be sent two months in advance.
BREWERS MARKET
15
Not just another market - creativity and ingenuity thrives at Windhoek’s new Brewers Market
10 MINUTES WITH LOCAL TASTE MAKERS 30
17
Charene Labuschagne sits down with fitness fundi, and all-around fabulous, Emily Kandanga.
ART-IST
19
There’s a new kid on the block and judging by the way this artist collective is doing business the Namibian music industry is looking better - introducing UMB Academy.
ROYAL HUSTLERS
21
From one of the most recognised faces on Namibian TV as a news anchor to O&L Group Manager Corporate Communications - Roux-ché Locke is a Royal Hustler of note.
FOODIES
22
Featured eateries, coffee hubs, bars and hotspots for foodies to fall in love with.
MASTER YOUR DESTINY 42 2
Mothering a nation - Namibian politician and human rights activist Rosa Namises in an interview with MYD.
23
THE TRIBE
24
#TheTribeExclusive chats to Nga-I, chief of Ovi-Trap, about his new direction in music and his new role as a father.
ECONOMIC PULSE
26
33
Economic researchers from IJG discuss whether to buy or rent in today’s property market in the Namibia Trade Network’s Economic Pulse, a monthly series on finance and the economy.
FASHION FIERCE
30
Namibian blogger, stylist and ethical fashionista, Disney Andreas, is passionate about sustainability in fashion and a walking example of how fashion consumers can make small contributions to save the planet.
3 TIPS AND TRICKS TO EAT MORE WHOLE-FOOD PLANTS
33
Klara motivates tired, uninspired urbanites to take back their personal health. She (mostly) practices what she preaches.
LOOKING GLOBAL
36
Global issues with local impact. Seasoned Namibian journalist Willie Olivier looks at the global threat of rampant fires and the connection to global warming.
19
WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT NAMIBIAN STEREOTYPES 39 Remy The Quill debunks three Namibian myths floating around in popular discourse.
WELLNESS ON FLYWESTAIR
41
Kirsty Watermeyer takes a look at contagious emotions and how to deal and self-heal.
PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURE
42
Susan Nel and photos of hope for the hopeless.
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW OWAMBO?
49
Willie Olivier gathers interesting facts about the central northern region of Namibia.
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE The Last Piece of the Puzzle: Walvis Bay becomes part of an independent Namibia.
51 11 3
NEED TO KNOWS. with www.flywestair.com
How to buy
a ticket online
More options for the perfect trip
Choose your ticket
Select which tickets you would like to purchase. We offer multiple fare options such as: Saver, Classic or Premium
Baggage policy, sporting equipment, over weight luggage or to add an additional bag(s)
Additional flight information / rules
Passenger details Please enter names as they appear on passport or travel documentation
Read up on all our additional information reagarding terms and conditions, and tick the selection box once completed to continue.
LOGIN to upload passenger details from previous booking.
Confirmation Mail
Payment
Transaction confirmation will be sent to passenger email entered.
Fill in your payment details in our DPO paygate to make final payment.
How can you make
a payment?
Cash payment at:
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
Eros Airport, Ondangwa Airport, Oranjemund Airport
Online card transaction
Immigration procedure Final Destination OMD
Oranjemund Exit
Windhoek Eros Airport Office SkyLounge Eros Ondangwa airport office Oranjemund airport office All major travel agents
restrictions Items NOT allowed in hand luggage: Lotions and aerosols above 100ml, flammable aerosol, sharp objects, i.e. nail files, nail scissors, Leatherman, matches.
MAX 20kg Per person
prior to flight
Departures Immagration
Online check-in opens 24hours before departure of the flight on www.flywestair.com Check-in opens 1h 30min before domestic flight and 2 hours before international flight.
Coffee Shop
Toilets
• • • • •
Check-in
Arrivals Immagration
Arrival Gate
from:
Luggage
Oranjemund Airport Final Destination CPT / ERS
You can also purchase
Office
Departure Gate
fly@westair.com.na | +264 81 207 6688 | +264 83 937 8247
Check-in CLOSES 30min prior to flight
Welcome on Board
FlyWestair
W
elcome on Board FlyWestair flights celebrating 30 years of independence this month.
When Namibia became independent three decades ago Westair had already been in operation for 23 years. We were ready! It was About Time in 1990 as it is About Time in 2020. Independence liberalised aviation in Namibia because it became possible for a private aviation company to obtain a charter licence. Thirty years on, and again this liberalisation of the economy enables private companies to operate scheduled flights. Westair again became the first to obtain that licence and start operating scheduled flights. The younger people in this country and in Westair are the “born free� generation. They have not experienced anything other than a liberalised economy. They inherited a country with policies that are pro-growth and prodevelopment and we hope to be able to continue building our future and our business without restrictions that hamper growth and development.
Our wish is that 30 years after independence our Government’s priorities would be to focus on the social challenges in the country, allowing private enterprise to face the economic challenges in an enabling environment created by Government. We like to point out the example where Government operates tourism facilities inside national parks, while the private sector around the parks makes tourism boom. Our policy at Westair has always been to reinvest in the company because we are committed to develop aviation in Namibia. That is one of the reasons why we introduced scheduled flights. The time was right and we have to grow our business, or stagnate. Westair can do it. We are lean and mean, and we have operated a scheduled service for DHL for 25 years with 99% dispatch reliability. As for the next 30 years: Westair plans to introduce a Safari Route which will add value to the tourism sector. Instead of increasing the carbon footprint, we intend to decrease it by carrying more passengers on one aircraft, after they have arrived in Windhoek on an international or regional flight, to reach their first destination on the same day. We do not intend to change existing travel patterns, but we are going to expand a different component.
5
Ondangwa - Toivo ya Toivo
Eros Airport
Oranjemund
W! NE Cape Town 6
NE W
!
now fl yi weekd n g every ay a nd Sund ays
FLIGHT SCHEDULE: FROM
TO
DAYS
DEPARTURE
ARRIVAL
Eros Windhoek
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Mon-Fri
06:30
07:30
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Eros Windhoek
Mon-Fri
08:00
09:00
Eros Windhoek
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Mon-Fri
17:45
18:45
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Eros Windhoek
Mon-Fri
19:15
20:15
Eros Windhoek
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Sun
17:00
18:00
Ondangwa - Toivo Ya Toivo
Eros Windhoek
Sun
18:30
19:30
Eros Windhoek
Oranjemund
Mon-Fri
09:30
10:40
Oranjemund
Cape Town
Mon-Fri
11:15
12:30
Cape Town
Oranjemund
Mon-Fri
14:20
15:30
Oranjemund
Eros Windhoek
Mon-Fri
16:00
17:10
Eros Windhoek
Oranjemund
Sun
13:00
14:10
Oranjemund
Cape Town
Sun
14:40
15:55
Cape Town
Oranjemund
Sun
16:50
18:00
Oranjemund
Eros Windhoek
Sun
18:30
19:40
Schedule as per date of going to print. Please check the FlyWestair website to stay updated on flight destinations, routes and schedules.
The Journey is the Destination Introducing FlyWestair Safaris
N FlyWestair Safaris.
amibia is a country blessed with an enormous array of dramatically different yet equally enticing destinations to discover. It is no surprise then that the task of choosing destinations for your visit can be a daunting one. The country itself is large and distances between sights and places are vast, often making it impossible to fit everything on your wishlist into a single visit, especially if you want to spend enough time at each place to truly absorb the majesty and wonder of it all. Namibia is great for self-drive adventures, and for those who have the time this can be a rewarding experience. But if you truly want to make the most out of your vacation, fly-in safaris are the most effective, and enticing, mode of travel. From the views to the ease with which you can reach far-flung and remote places, seeing Namibia by air is an other-worldly experience. Enter
With FlyWestair Safaris visitors to Namibia will reach the country’s top tourist destinations effortlessly and have more time to enjoy what truly matters. Departing from Eros Airport in Windhoek, the daily circuit includes flights to Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Etosha National Park - all of them a quick and comfortable journey from the capital. FlyWestair’s current route offers flights between Cape Town International and Eros Airport with a brief stopover for customs in Oranjemund. If you’re flying in with another international carrier to Hosea Kutako International Airport, however, don’t despair! FlyWestair operates shuttle services from HKIA, which is a 30 minute drive from the capital to Eros Airport, for your convenient departure to your ultimate holiday destination. With easy access to the country’s top destinations, and therefore by default to Namibia’s most popular lodges, FlyWestair Safaris will make your journey through this enigmatic land an unforgettable experience, with ultimate convenience, because time is the most valuable commodity we’ve got.
8
FlyWestair Destinations
Liza de Klerk
Paul van Schalkwyk
Swakopmund Swakopmund is much loved by Namibians as a welcome respite from the heat of the interior. It is also popular among visitors because of its old-world charm and relaxed atmosphere. Founded in 1892 during German colonial rule, it served as the territory’s main harbour for many years. Today this quaint desert town, wedged between desert and sea, is enhanced by lush green lawns, elegant palm trees and carefully tended public gardens. Swakop has a wide choice of hotels, guesthouses and restaurants, and several coffee shops selling traditional German cakes and pastries. The coast with its desert hinterland offers endless opportunities for adventure and for relaxation. Etosha Undoubtedly Namibia’s most popular tourist attraction, Etosha National Park is the heart of the north-central region. In its centre is the largest salt pan in Africa, which can even be seen from space. Etosha owes its unique landscape and name to the pan, a vast, shallow, chalky-white depression of approximately 5000 km2. It is still one of the largest game reserves in Africa. Of the 114 mammal species found in the park, several are rare and endangered, such as black rhino and cheetah, and the lesser-known black-faced impala, which is endemic to north-western Namibia and south-western Angola. Etosha’s current population of black rhino is one of the largest in the world.
Liza de Klerk
Sossusvlei Deadvlei’s iconic fossilised camel-thorns are synonymous with images of Namibia. Set against a backdrop of burnt orange sand dunes and bright blue skies, this is one of the country’s top tourist attractions. The vlei, a spectacular white pan surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world, is located close to the legendary Sossusvlei. The surrounding area is known as the Namib-Naukluft National Park. Proclaimed in 1975, it is an amalgamation of several areas into one reserve. Skip the crowds by visiting one of the private nature reserves nearby, and fall in love with the dramatic beauty that is Namibia’s red sand dunes, special desert fauna and flora, and endless horizons.
Liza de Klerk
FLYWESTAIR SAFARIS CIRCUIT:
Etosha start
Le Roux van Schalkwyk Swakopmund
Windhoek
start
Read more about these destinations on www. travelnewsnamibia.com FlyWestair Safaris will be launched in the second quarter of 2020.
Le Roux van Schalkwyk
Sossusvlei
9
A PARADISE WHERE THE EARTH RISES AGAIN, FERTILE AND GREEN The farm Midgard has been in the List family since 1937. It was not until the early 1980s that its development was earnestly started by Werner List, son of Carl List, one of the founding fathers of the Ohlthaver & List group. Werner and his wife Hildegard invited their friends and family over to enjoy their piece of paradise, and lavishly entertained them. Their generosity soon popularised Midgard in the most ingenious way, until Werner eventually decided to turn Midgard into a lodge in 1986. Today, Midgard is a well-known family retreat where guests come to enjoy the adventurous outdoors or to simply relax on the serene grounds. The premises are currently being refurbished, but visitors are still welcome as we remain open. We hope to keep the List family’s hospitable legacy alive for many generations to come by telling this story of origin.
T +264 61 431 8000 | midgard.res@ol.na | www.midgardcountryestate.com 10
2020
What’s happening. The Tuesday of the months has come to an end... Also known as the month where you actually start the whole “new year, new me” business, as January was just a free trial month. March has seriously arrived already (say: “what?! “) and it is jam-packed with events all over Namibia you don’t want to miss out on.
06 March Do you enjoy mingling with people from different backgrounds and cultures? If the answer is yes, then definitely check out the International Expat Event at The Brewers Market in Windhoek. It will be an evening filled with beer, delicious food and games that is guaranteed to make you laugh and walk away with the best of memories!
07 March Are you a potjiekos connoisseur? Do you think you’ve got what it takes? Well, now’s the time for you and your secret potjiekos recipe to shine! Join the Namibia Drought Relief team for this fun-filled day in the capital where you can show off your skills, walk through the market or dance the night away with Die Klipwerf Orkes.
07 March Attention all coffee addicts – did you know there’s a new coffee bar opening in town? Why not switch it up and have your usual morning coffee run at CoffeeHolics in Windhoek. Check out their official opening on 07 March from 08:30. We’re sure they’ll be stocked with the best of the best to warm you up and keep you fuelled for the day!
07 March For all of you motorsport enthusiasts out there, catch the 4x4 Vasbyt event in Omaruru from 08:00 to watch how these adventure junkies go through obstacle courses covered in mud while almost tipping over. Sounds fun, right?
16 March Come and tell your story about #transformation at this year’s World Speech Day in Swakopmund. This event allows for all the hustlers to share their journey in just five minutes in a way that will inspire and change the world. So if you think you’re the perfect influential candidate, send an email to office@ scribingdynamics.com to register OR be influenced by one of the many speakers!
11
MAKING SAFETY A PRIORITY AND PERSONAL KEEPS US SAFE, TODAY TO ENSURE A BETTER TOMORROW.
12
At Namdeb, we uphold our safety standards with the greatest regard, because through them, every person at Namdeb remains safe today and tomorrow. We therefore put safety at the helm of everything that we do by embedding it in our work culture to ensure zero harm GOOD TODAY. BETTER TOMORROW.
What’s Happening
21 March We hope you have your tekkies and Fitbits ready, because it’s almost time to really get that heart rate going! And no, we’re not talking about all the poses you strike for the perfect #ThatFitLife Instagram-worthy shot, we’re talking real serious marathon skills here. If you think you can jog for 42.2 km or 21.1 km straight without your tongue hanging out, sign up for the Sanlam Coastal Marathon 2020 in Swakopmund. Tickets are available from EventsToday. P.S. – there’s also a 10 km run and 5 km fun run for the upand-coming marathon experts.
21-22 March Whilst in a way it is still summer, but unfortunately no longer the festive season (sigh...), you may as well pretend it still is and get your adrenaline pumpin’ with the Swakopmund Open Beach Volleyball event on 21 – 22 March. There might not be the December summer vibes anymore, but you could still end the volleyball weekend madness with a dip in the ocean, drink a beer or two and watch the sunset with your mates.
25 March Have you ever just stopped and wondered in the midst of admiring that California Roll before putting it in your mouth, how they got every single little component so flawless? Well... Let’s be real, sushi in general is just absolute perfection, but when everything fits into one perfect bite – that is art! And lucky for us, Silver Spoon Hospitality Academy in Windhoek will be hosting Sushi Classes on 25 March, and even though you might not master the art of sushi making from the get-go, at least you can eat all the flops. Visit their website to book your spot! (www.silverspoon.com.na)
27 March From classic Harley Davidsons to speedy Yamahas, the President’s Run is any motorbike enthusiast’s dream and will surely leave them drooling. On 27 March bikers from all over the country will show off their two-wheelers or even three-wheeler trikes at Hotel De Duine in Henties Bay.
27 March - 04 April It feels like just yesterday that we were all partying and celebrating all the festivities, and guess what? We get to let our hair down once more with WIKA – the Windhoek Karneval – for more than a week. We’re pretty sure WIKA must be the biggest annual festival Namibians look forward to and with good reason, who would not want to learn more about this German event through all the activities they have to offer. Ice cold drinks, good food, dancing, fun German traditions... What more could you ask for? Buy your tickets on Webtickets.
We told you that March is overflowing with events and festivities! It’s like December 2.0 and if we may give you some advice: Get out of your house and make the best of these last summer days, because before you know it, the chilly nights start creeping in and then it’s just too late to leave your bed and hot chocolate behind. Leave the Netflix and Chill for hibernation mode! Jacolene Hall
13
Earn Cash monthly with FNB Rewards when you swipe. Earning Cash Back with FNB Rewards is as easy as swiping for goods and services with your FNB Debit/Credit card, buying airtime online or paying for fuel purchases with your Credit card.
Visit www.fnbnamibia.com.na Call us on 061 299 2222 Terms and Conditions apply. 14
Does your bank offer you this?
NOT JUST ANOTHER MARKET - creativity and ingenuity thrives at Windhoek’s new Brewers
O
ctober 2019 was a sad month for performance arts as the 30-year-old institution that was Warehouse Theatre was forced to close its doors without a glimmer of a hope that it could be saved. But, the mourning lasted barely four months: like the mythical phoenix rising from the (not yet cold) ashes, the Warehouse was reincarnated as the Brewers Market. Straying away from a purely music orientated venue, the Brewers Market is a melting pot of food, drink, art, fashion, crafts and culture. It is a space for entrepreneurs and SMEs to grow their businesses as part of a cultural hub that hopes to attract locals and tourists alike. Opening with a roaring party on Saturday, 8 February with some of the capital’s music regulars who amongst others included the likes of Sean K and Vaughn Ahrens, the Brewers Market introduced its market-like concept to potential clients. “The idea is that it’s all integrated,” explains Che’ Rousseau, the mastermind behind the resurrection of the venue. “It’s not just a bar anymore, we now have fresh juices, brötchens, churros and coffee all under one roof. If people come for a comedy show they can get something to eat from Market Lane and go sit on the deck or go listen to some live music at the Brew Room.”
refined patron. More vendors are set to join soon, while an upperclass barbershop is also in the making. Apart from haircuts and styling, and shaves with cut-throat razors, gents will also be able to have a pedicure and manicure. According to Rousseau it will be a real man-cave, the perfect place to escape to after a tough day at the office.
The Brew Room is the main bar and entertainment area hosting events such as quiz nights and comedy nights. A local band performs every Thursday followed by a larger band on Fridays. Above the Brew Room is the Deck, a venue that is suited for Straying away various events but will mostly serve as seating for Saturday markets. The Deck is also set to from a purely acoustic sessions on Sundays that will music orientated host be followed by a DJ session to round off your Sunday funday. venue, the
Brewers Market is a melting pot of food, drink, art, fashion, crafts and culture.
Set up as a collection of different venues and vendors all under one roof, it’s the type of place that you’ll go to for a quick bite to eat and three hours later catch yourself watching a band play. In Market Lane you’ll find food stands that range from the freshest sushi to the tastiest African cuisine and even a batter bar that serves churros and crepes. The Den (Designer Emporium Namibia) is where a collective of Namibian fashion designers showcase their ready to wear lines. A great place for upcoming designers to display their unique handmade and proudly Namibian products to a wider audience. Additionally, Market Lane houses an art exhibition space as well as its own wine bar for the more
The Warehouse Theatre is the only venue to retain its name and remain untouched. As Rousseau explains, the theatre is such an established brand, universally loved by performers and fans throughout Namibia, that to change the name would not make sense. The theatre will be what anchors everything and word is that there are some exciting acts already lined up for the year. Regular evenings like Free Your Mind and Song Night will all be retained and scheduled to continue at the theatre. Every Saturday will see the Brewers Market fill up with extra vendors, pop up stalls and live music to create a large market filled with fun and something not to miss. No more complaining there is nothing to do in the capital. The Brewers Market is situated in Tal Street and open daily from 11:00 until late. Le Roux van Schalkwyk
15
IT’S TIME FOR THE PERFECT BEER
OUR PERFECT BEER IS AVAILABLE IN 16 COUNTRIES WORLD WIDE. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT NBLEXPORT@OL.NA
Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Enjoy Responsibly.
10 minutes
with local taste makers
I
n the sweltering Saturday sun I meet Emily Kandanga at Eagles Beer Garden – her hip-length braids and massive hoops are the only flashy thing about her. She’s barefaced and in booty shorts and we’re having a beer. Or three.
Her reason for bringing me to this peculiar place on the outskirts of town befuddles me. But soon enough she explains: the fitness empire she’s slowly but surely building, all started on the lawn we’re looking out on. Or at least it was a lawn when Emily and her business partners began training a handful of clients here. Luckily, Sweat Fitness Namibia relocated. Strenuous exercise and subsequent heavy breathing don’t pair well with the expanse of dust that She is once was a lawn. Emily got into fitness in her late teens. The catalyst being the fear of getting fat, as that was rumoured to be in her genes. She quickly sweated away her projected love handles and fell in love with fitness. So much so that she now spends a fair amount of her time in the gym, training herself and the people who have sought out her coaching. When she isn’t training, she’s thinking about training, reading about training, resting and eating for training.
She’s an exceptionally balanced woman. The fact that she’s a self-proclaimed fitness freak, a Miss Namibia 2019 finalist and an articulated, global citizen, and we are parked on a yellow festival bench eating deep-fried potatoes, should give you an indication. When I ask her about her experience with the prestigious pageant, she tells me that 2019 was her 4th and final attempt. Not only was she a finalist, but she also rose to the occasion and competed with the same spirit that she practices at Sweat. I rack my brain to think of any woman who can handle that rejection and still show unwavering resilience.
without doubt a pillar – literally and figuratively – of power, persistence and purity.
I’m out of breath from the mere thought of it and the hyperventilation (or karma) causes me to spill half a draught on Emily’s lap. I wish the dusty plane would swallow me whole. What a friggin amateur I am. But the gracious goddess that is Emily laughs it off and later thanks me (I think) because the cold beer offered relief from the high 20s heat. Luckily it evaporates and we share a plate of chips, ketchup on the side.
She is without doubt a pillar – literally and figuratively – of power, persistence and purity. With Sex and the City being her chosen pregame for nights out, you will know that the kind of woman who gets fired up by Carrie Bradshaw is unstoppable. But she does, in fact, stop. To binge-watch series with a six-pack of Windhoek draughts. Again, balance.
This amazon of a woman is as Namibian as they come, so her undeniably American accent has had me puzzled since we first met roughly a year ago. I believe accents are contagious, so my initial assumption was that she liked the sound and has adopted it. As with any assumption made about Emily, I was wrong. You cannot assume anything about her, because she’s going to surprise you no matter what. When her family moved to New York City, she could barely speak a word of English. Learning the language in the States cultivated the twang in her tongue. So no, she is not pretentious. On the contrary – her presence is synonymous with selflessness and serenity. Charene Labuschagne 17
Next Generation
SIM Management Solution
Easily monitor and manage company SIM cards on a proven online platform. SIMcontrol is built for business. It’s the easiest way to manage large numbers of business SIM cards on a single pooled
No Contracts
account. SIMcontrol is designed for reliable M2M, IoT and data device deployments and works with local network SIMs
No Bill Shock
Join leading companies who use SIMcontrol to easily connect all their mobile data
Full Control
devices cost-effectively, reliably and quickly.
Contact us to speak to a specialist today. www.simcontrol.com.na | sales@simcontrol.com.na | +264 81 335 6301
art-ist
Photo credit: Juné van der Walt for Urban Lens Photography
T
UMB Academy - The home of Namibia’s creative future
here’s a new kid on the block and judging by the way this artist collective is doing business the Namibian music industry is looking better.
Consisting of producer/DJ Dreas, soulful songstress Diolini, multi-talented musician Loft and veteran rapper, Brain The Tool, Universal Master Builder’s Academy (UMB Academy) is shaking things up in the industry. UMB Academy founder Brain The Tool is confident that record labels are still very relevant in Namibia, saying, “this is what Namibia needs the most in a landscape where we are much weaker individually. A model like this helps foster interdependence, an exchange of value for value.” Established in 2016, UMB Academy was born out of a business deal gone wrong, Brain admits. Refusing to let the setback keep him down, he started the brand and has not looked back since. With the three artists signed to the label being so diverse, it begs the question of what it takes to be part of the team. For Brain, talent is not enough. “I look for a multitude of things. Discipline, proactive efforts, selfreliance and passion to succeed, to mention but a few,” he says.
“Our greatest power and success has come from recognising the unique landscape of arts and business in Namibia. We don’t believe in models that have nothing to do with how we live our lives on the ground. We’re crafting our own path – curating our own culture,” says a passionate Brain who is intent on shifting the arts landscape through this project.
We really won’t have anything to look at if we don’t have a different take on how we are positioned in the global community where art is concerned.
UMB Academy aims to develop and promote the arts not only in Namibia but across Africa and the rest of the world. It does this by networking and collaborating with various artists. The label has also positioned itself to guide and assist these artists where necessary and by so doing, helps to breathe life into the arts sector.
A talented, forward-thinking and multidisciplinary artist himself, Brain believes in continuous learning in order to stay on top of the game. “Nothing I’ve learnt today has more significance than anything I’ve learnt in the past – it all matters. The only difference is I’m enjoying the fruits of wisdom and not vague concepts found in youthful pursuits,” he says. He also believes in the talent that he has signed on and is hopeful that the industry will become more professional and more structured. If that doesn’t happen, he says, then the time for Namibian music to join the global stage will continue to be deferred.
“We really won’t have anything to look at if we don’t have a different take on how we are positioned in the global community where art is concerned.” Rukee Kaakunga is a Windhoek-based Concept Engineer, PR Consultant, and fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com and follow her on Twitter @rukeeveni.
19
ASK FOR MORE
Infinite Beauty Book your BABOR Facial this month, purchase your homecare to the value of N$2500
receive your Facial for FREE INCLUDES COMPLIMENTARY USE OF OUR SPA FACILITIES Outdoor Chilled Pool, Outdoor Heated Hydrotherapy Pool, Indoor Steam Room
061 209 0990 /
081 309 5070 /
info@soulsticedayspawh.co.za
www.soulsticedayspawindhoek.co.za TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY. Valid Monday - Sunday for the month of March 2020. While stocks last.
ROYAL HUSTLERS
S
Roux-ché Locke on leaving a legacy
he rose to prominence as one of the most recognised faces on Namibian TV as a news anchor. Roux-ché Locke has since accelerated her career in media and communications, climbing the corporate ladder to find herself at the top communications position at the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group of Companies. Currently serving in the position O &L Group Manager - Corporate Communications, Roux-ché is a Royal Hustler of note who has gone from literally washing feet to ruling the corporate communications world. Roux-ché was born in a small South African town called Willowmore. In the late 70s she moved to Windhoek with her parents and older brother. Her parents were both retired educators and Roux-ché was naturally inclined to follow in their footsteps. “My Dad was a school principal and I had this thing, which they still tease me about: whenever I got back from school, I would go to my Dad’s study and put on my Mom’s clothes and shoes and start teaching my dolls,” she reminisces. By the time she was in high school, though, she wanted to become an actress. Her path to her current position spans many years in the journalism and communication arena. She jokingly shares how she would give mini-pedicures as a side-hustle during her high school years. “I used to wash people’s feet. It’s ridiculous. Until I discovered that it’s not quite my passion, especially having to face the condition that some of my ‘customer’s’ feet were in”, she laughingly says. Roux-ché admits that nevertheless she still loves a little pedicure service. “You know what, I think I’m good at it. I love beautiful feet, you know, I’ve got this fetish for beautiful feet.” Early career In school Roux-ché excelled in subjects like economics and her dad convinced her to study economics instead of drama. She spent no more than a month at Stellenbosch University where she was enrolled for a BEcon degree. “I realised that it was not ME – so, I phoned my Dad and told him that before I waste his money and my time, I was quitting and coming home,” she says.
But even though she was and still is passionate about acting, Roux-ché never took up a career in drama. She started at the NBC where she spent ten years as a full-time employee. After leaving the NBC she worked at the Bank of Namibia and the Polytechnic of Namibia (now NUST) before joining the O&L Group, where she has been for the past ten years. Living the dream Very few people can call their current jobs their dream jobs, but Roux-ché is one of them. “It’s so wonderful to be part of this rich legacy, to be part of an organisation where there is purpose and passion. I can only describe it in one word – amazing,” she says. One of her highlights at the O&L Group is being part of the O&L centenary celebrations, witnessing a legacy built over 100 years that continues to have a positive impact on the entire country. “We are very, very passionate about our people, about Namibian people, and throughout the 100 year celebration we run a campaign with the theme ‘thanks to you nothing is impossible’, because we believe that we would not have reached this milestone achievement had it not been for the people of Namibia.” She is also especially grateful to work at an organisation that she shares an overall purpose with. “Waking up in the morning knowing that I have a purpose in life and that my purpose connects very well with the O&L purpose keeps me going. This purpose of ’creating a future, enhancing life’ motivates and inspires me to go out there and make a difference – even if it is in the life of just one person a day.” Roux-ché is intent on leaving a legacy that her children will be proud of and that she can be remembered for. She wants to make a positive impact on people’s lives. This article is based on an interview with Roux-ché on 99FM. Tune in to The Royal Hustlers on 99 FM every Monday to Friday at 07h35.
21
Culinary guide - Sponsored
Two Beards Coffee Shrouded in the unexpected natural luxury of the Habitat Lifestyle Centre, a delightful coffee roastery can be found. Two Beards Coffee is a roastery like no other in Namibia in that they focus on higher end specialty grade Arabica coffees. With a wide variety and ever changing menu, your coffee taste buds are sure to be pleased with the expert guidance of a passionate coffee team. Allow yourself a moment and relax in their gourmet coffee bar and bistro, Two Beards and a Saint. Its worth it! Coffee in so many forms, from specialty to decadent, all designed to make your day magical. A delicious upmarket bistro-style menu is available - be sure to enquire about their daily specials. Let the theatre and taste profile of exceptional coffee mesmerise you. www.2beardscoffee.com.na
Foodies
The Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro Set in the shady courtyard of the whimsical Bougain Villas Centre in Windhoek, the Stellenbosch Wine Bar and Bistro on Sam Nujoma Avenue is one of the capital’s most popular restaurants. Patrons can not only sip on one of the many award-winning wines on offer but also indulge in prime cuts of Namibian meat. At the helm of the dining establishment is the Windhoek Collection, which also created the Stellenbosch Tasting Room and the Stellenbosch Market in the same property. www.thestellenboschwinebar.com To feature your restaurant, email fly@venture.com.na
22
Featured eateries, coffee hubs, bars and hotspots for foodies to fall in love with.
Hartlief The Hartlief Shop and Bistro is situated in Sheffield Street, Northern Industrial Area. It is the perfect combination of a modern state-of-the-art factory shop and delicatessen and also boasts two restaurant areas - the Bistro (inside the shop) and the Hartlief Beer Garden. The full Hartlief range can be found here, from fresh meat to processed products. While shopping, one can enjoy a coffee, breakfast or lunch in either of our restaurants or grab a Bratwurst roll on the go from our braai stand outside. www.hartlief.co.za
R
osa Namises is a Namibian politician and human rights activist who has made selfless contributions to the lives of many Namibians, young and old. Rosa played a heroic role in Namibia’s liberation struggle – even enduring torture.
She is a former member of parliament and a founding member and former Secretary General of the Namibia Congress of Democrats. Rosa is a prominent voice on gender issues, human rights violations and violence against women and children in Namibia. She is the Director of Women Solidarity Namibia and founded the Dolam Residential Child Care Centre for vulnerable children.
home with a little girl, it was the weekend. On Sunday I said ‘tomorrow is Monday, everybody must go back to their homes, so let’s take this child back.’ They were hesitant. We drove to a house, I knocked on the door and a person came out. I said ‘I brought your little girl home’, and they said ‘no, go to the back’. But there was just an old car wreck.
Mothering a nation:
Rosa Namises
This is her story. MYD: Let us start at the beginning, tell us about yourself. I am a child of the old location, I was born at the time of the second forceful removals and I experienced that.
MYD: What would you say we can do to assist Namibians today? How could we help to heal?
I remember it vividly, then as a little girl and again as a big girl. It seems like I was born, we lived there and then we were removed. My father is from Angola and my mom is Namibian, I also think my birth tells quite a lot about me. MYD: How did you start the Dolam Children’s Home? I left parliament in 2010. I think the Dolam Children’s Home is a way of paying for privilege. I don’t say we have money or many things but I think we, me and my children, were a bit privileged. My mom and my dad had a home. When my mom passed on, my siblings and I had a grandmother’s home. I was working at the Catholic Church doing a lot in development work and I saw what was happening, so I thought it was important to have this place. One day the girls came
The child was living there. I couldn’t leave her. I took her to the social workers and they said, ‘can you please keep her for us and we will come back to you,’ but they didn’t come back. It was in 1999 when Dolam Children’s Home started in Katutura and we have managed, basically, to provide shelter and education and then just to stand in as a mother, to listen and be with them. It is a challenge. The children are coming from a very traumatised background. I see the impact of that trauma, how it really works and this whole story of peer pressure, poverty and absent fathers in the family home. I have seen it playing out.
recognised as human beings.
We all have light within us. In some the light has darkened. Those of us who still have light of compassion – compassion will kill this pain. It can be done in different ways. One way is to be friends with those out there, who are in those dark places. Another is to create spaces where they can come and just be people,
Rosa’s story is part of a series celebrating Namibians in partnership with Master Your Destiny. Read more in the MYD Journal at: www.issuu.com/99fm/docs/99fm_myd_ book_2018
23
24
THE TRIBE
#TheTribeExclusive featuring Nga - I
T
his Namibian rapper at one point announced his imminent departure from the music industry. Fortunately for his fans, Nga-I has since reiterated that he will still be making music for a long time to come.
through a rough time in his life and needed to take time out to remember why he was doing what he was doing. To remember and rediscover the meaning of music to him.
Sitting down with #TheTribeExclusive, the chief of OviTrap talks about his new direction in music and his new role as a father.
“I just wanted to quit, I wanted to be more responsible. It comes with growth. I’ve studied the game, I’ve seen a lot of people, we’ve had the little wings, I’ve seen people have the flame and then let it die out, you know what I mean. I was moving a bit too fast. You know if it happens too fast – easy come, easy go,” he says.
Doing it for Nation and the nation “It’s different, it’s special. It’s real, she’s really there,” he says on what fatherhood has meant in the first few months of his daughter’s life.
While music has its perks, the rapper did not want to be part of the music industry anymore. He points out behind-the-scenes issues that made him lose interest.
Fatherhood affected him so much that he dedicated his project ‘Nation’ to his daughter who goes by the same name. Clearly smitten with the little one, he says: “I want her to have some sort of letter from me, something that will show her what I was going through at the time because we never know what the future has in store. So this is a kind of ‘will’ that I’m leaving her with.”
He especially wants to work with young rappers who are passionate about OviTrap.
The legacy he wants to leave for his daughter is not the only one he is working on. Nga-I is also passionate about mentoring young artists following in his footsteps. He especially wants to work with young rappers who are passionate about Ovi-Trap.
“Ovi-Trap has always existed. I was just blessed enough and lucky enough to be used as the vessel to bring it out. So even if I leave the industry, the legacy must continue. There are still messages that have to touch people out there and these messages need to be delivered by someone. Maybe even a child from Omaheke has something to say.” Time out Nga-I’s decision to quit music came after he went
“It’s a lot of scheming. It’s supposed to be about passion but now it seems a bit too artificial. You know that when you do certain things, when you say certain things, when you work with certain people. It doesn’t leave any room for passion, but passion is what is going to inspire a child somewhere.”
Looking to the future With his talk of leaving the industry a thing of the past now, Nga-I plans on continuing on a path of authenticity. He wants to start a record label of his own one day and groom the next generation of musicians in Namibia. He also plans on taking his album ‘Nation’ to all corners of Namibia and most importantly, he plans to put his family first. Always. Watch The Tribe on One Africa TV (GoTV 90, DStv 284, DStv Now, TV2Africa.com) every Friday at 21h30 and repeat shows on Wednesdays at 07h00 and on Saturdays at 17h30. Alternatively, listen to The Tribe on 99FM every Friday at 19h00, and follow The Tribe on Instagram @thetribenamibia and on Facebook @TheTribeNamibia.
25
Do I Buy or do I Rent?
S
o, you don’t want to pay off someone else’s bond, right? Intuitively this thinking makes sense and it has been the reason for many people wanting to own a property. However, rental expense never goes away, even if you stay in the house you bought. “How can this be?”, you might ask. You first need to understand the two drivers of return when you invest in a property: (1) Capital return captures the price increase that you can expect over time; and (2) net rental income captures the rental income after deducting relevant expenses. Luckily there are more than 100 years of data on property prices that can be examined to get an idea of capital returns. If you look at countries like South Africa, the UK, Germany, Spain, France and the US there is a strong correlation between the average price increases for property over the long term and the long-term average inflation rate of that country. In other words, if South Africa’s inflation averaged ±6% over ±100 years, then the average price increase for property was ±6%. If the longterm inflation rate in the US is ±2%, then the average price increase for property in the US is ±2%. What this means is that if you buy a property at fair value (in other words not for a bargain, and not overpaying) you can expect to get a long-term average price increase that matches inflation. Yes, asset classes do go through periods of booms and busts, but we are looking at the average return. Net rental income is the income you can expect after deducting items such as maintenance, loss of income (due to vacancies or bad debt), levies (including taxes), and the marginal tax rate on income before tax. Now that we understand the two drivers of return a little bit better, let’s revisit the concept of “rental expense never goes away”. Let’s assume you have the choice of either buying a house or renting that same house. If you decide to rent the house, you will be paying rent. If you decide to buy that house, you will be staying in it and forego rental income. You will not receive any rental income but you will still pay the levies, maintenance, etc. Hence, rental expenses never really go away. The driver of return, however, is capital growth after deducting relevant expenses. Now that we have established that rent will always be an expense, we are getting closer to understanding when it is better to rent and when we should rather buy. Let’s assume that you are considering buying property by taking out a 20year bond. This means that if you rent that same property, you have the opportunity to invest the difference between
26
the theoretical bond payment and the rental expense. If the property is trading at fair value, the alternative investment (should you decide to rent) must provide a return above the inflation-like capital return that you can expect on average (should you buy the property and stay in it). You might say, well in that case, there are many other investments that will at the very least match inflation and have a lower risk, e.g. money market accounts. It is not that straight forward, however. It depends on market conditions. If you are able to buy a property below fair value, the capital return over time should (all other things being equal) beat inflation and perhaps provide a very attractive return. On the other hand, if you overpay for the property, the return could be dire. It might therefore be useful to look at a back-of-the-envelope calculation to get a better idea of fair value (FV): • • •
Assume an alternative investment provides a return of ± 10% per year. Assume long-term inflation of ±6% in South Africa is similar in Namibia. The simple formula of total return (% per year)
Economic Pulse
Susan Nel
• •
•
= capital appreciation (% per year) + net rental income (% per year), then becomes: 10% = 6% + net rental income, which means net rental income = 4%. Net rental income (% per year) = net rental income figures per year divided by fair value. Net rental income per year can be calculated fairly accurately, but make sure you use the average throughout the economic cycle’s figures (good, bad and average times). Let’s assume the figure is N$40k p.a. Then, 4% = net rental income (N$40k p.a.) divided by FV, in other words FV = N$40k p.a. divided by 4% = N$1M.
The moment you pay more than N$1M in the above calculation, you would overpay for the property, compared to what the alternative investment can offer and vice versa. It should be noted that if you break even with the alternative investment, you must still compare things like diversification, etc. between the two investments to correctly manage the risk.
There are other intangible benefits to rather buying a property, such as being able to change the place to your liking and not being uncertain about how long you can stay in a place. Last, but not least, you can do all the calculations and the answer might indicate that it is better to rent, but if you don’t have the discipline to save (compared to the discipline of a bond payment debit order), you might be better off buying. By René Olivier, CFA (MD, IJG Wealth Management) René Olivier(CFA) is the Managing Director of Wealth Management at IJG, an established Namibian financial services market leader. IJG believes in tailoring their services to a client’s personal and business needs. For more information, visit www.ijg.net. To sign up for the Economic Pulse newsletter, send an email to: daleen@venture.com.na www.namibiatradedirectory.com
NETWORK
27
© PHOTO BY OLWEN EVANS
THE RHINO GOLD BAR
© PHOTO BY OLWEN EVANS
| CREATIVE PHILANTHROPY FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR PLANET |
WHAT DIFFERENCE CAN 1000 OUNCES OF GOLD MAKE?
Through a ground-breaking donation of 1000 ounces of Namibian gold by B2Gold, organizations and individuals have the opportunity to contribute directly to the protection of the last free-roaming population of black rhinos left in the world by investing in a limited edition Namibian Rhino Gold Bar. Proceeds from the sales will provide long-term sustainable funding for rhino conservation on communal land in Namibia, where a rhino-based economy is developing – supporting livelihoods and providing hope for the future to rural communities. This initiative is administered by B2Gold and its Advisory Committee and supports the activities of Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation, Conservancy Rhino Rangers and the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, for the benefit of black rhino conservation and communities in northwest Namibia.
These are graphic renderings and not the final product.
TO INVEST IN THE FUTURE
| CONTACT rhino@b2gold.com |
B2Gold launches the Rhino Gold Bar project A monumental initiative to help rural communities save a species
“W
hat difference can 1000 ounces of gold make?” asked the booklet on our dinner table. A prospectus compiled by Canadian mining company B2Gold to introduce a new project. A project of colossal proportions. During the course of an evening, what I imagined would be another corporate grandstanding event morphed from project-launch-slash-donation-handover to a celebration of philanthropy on a level never before seen in southern Africa. An initiative not just spectacular in the enormousness of the monetary value of its contribution (a whopping N$25 million worth of gold), but also in the scale in which it will be implemented. Sustainably and with an ultimate focus on longevity. The N$25 million will represent the spot price of gold plus a 15% conservation premium. The prospectus answers its own question regarding the aid power of 1000 ounces: “At B2Gold, we believe it has the power to help rural communities in Namibia save a species.” The species in question? Namibia’s unique and special population of desert-adapted black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis bicornis. The communities? The local population and conservancies of Namibia’s Kunene Region who have been given the burden, and privilege, to safeguard the largest population of free-roaming black rhinos on earth. A monumental task, worthy of monumental support. Gathered at Droombos just outside Windhoek on January 30th, a collection of Namibia’s most prominent business personalities, B2Gold executives (some coming from as far as Canada) and the shining stars in Namibia’s conservation fraternity gathered beneath canopies of camel thorn trees to clink glasses and later celebrate the largest single contribution to conservation Namibia has ever seen. Launching the project, Save the Rhino Trust board member Ginger Mauney (who designed the original concept), B2Gold Namibia Country Manager Mark Dawe and B2Gold President Clive Johnson each addressed the gathered masses. Passion radiated from their every word and an infectious and exciting energy permeated the room. Applause was about as common as speakers pausing to take a breath between words. So what are the 1000 ounces going to achieve, you may wonder? The gold, which was mined right here in Namibia and sponsored in full by B2Gold, will be minted into a limitededition collection of 1000 gold bars in varying sizes: 10 halfkilogram bars, 690 one-ounce bars and 300 half-ounce bars. It is the first time in history that gold has been minted and used for the sustainable protection of an endangered species, making these gold bars almost as rare and unique as our black rhinos. Perfect symmetry.
By buying these gold bars, individuals around the world can secure an investment that has historically been more stable than any other commodity, and simultaneously contribute to one of the most critical biodiversity conservation initiatives globally. Who will benefit from this? (Rhinos can’t do anything with gold!) Proceeds from the sale of the Rhino Gold Bar will be managed by an Advisory Committee established by B2Gold that will include representatives from Save the Rhino Trust Namibia (SRT), Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation (IRDNC), the Namibia Chamber of Environment (NCE) and the Namibian Ministry of Environment and Tourism. According to B2Gold “The funds will be used in two ways: A portion of the proceeds will be invested to provide long-term sustainable financing for black rhino conservation, while significant funding will be applied immediately to conservation actions in the field, including support for patrols, intelligence activities and to rural communities for whom the protection of rhinos is their birthright.” That’s what it comes down to, isn’t it? Our communities, with invaluable support from NGOs such as SRT and IRDNC, are at the very core of conservation in Namibia. Our CommunityBased Natural Resource Management programme is the cornerstone of our celebrated success as a nation. As Dr Margaret Jacobsohn, esteemed Namibian conservationist, said at the event: “Individuals can make a difference, but only communities can change the world.” “Creative philanthropy for the future of our planet” B2GOLD At the start of this new decade, north-western Namibia celebrates more than two years of no poaching. This is a success story built on the dedication and indispensable efforts of a collection of people, organisations and governmental institutions that banded together to fight a war for the conservation of a species. NGOs such as SRT, IRDNC, NNF and NACSO. The Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Namibia Police, Blue Rhino Taskforce and Namibia Defence Force. And above all: the conservancies, Save the Rhino Trust Namibia, Rhino Rangers and individuals from local communities who build their existence on and around the rhino economy in north-western Namibia and dedicate their lives to the protection of the species. The support from The Rhino Gold Bar project will be a lifeline with longevity. To view the Rhino Gold Bar prospectus, visit www.b2gold.com To invest in your own special natural Namibian resource and to help conservation organisations and communities invest in the future of Namibia’s rhinos, send an email to rhino@b2gold.com. Elzanne McCulloch
29
Disney Andreas
Tuwa Wolf
– The Ethical Fashionista
30
S
ustainability has been a growing concern in the fashion industry with global producers of fashion brands facing increasing pressure to be ethical in their business practices and ensure little to no harm comes to people, animals and the planet.
Namibian blogger, stylist and avid environmentalist Disney Andreas is passionate about sustainability in fashion and is a walking example of how fashion consumers can make small contributions to save the planet.
the opportunity to educate people using the Monochrome Magazine platform and conversations around ethical fashion emerged from that. I also believe that ethical fashion is quite an expensive direction to follow, especially for fashion designers in Namibia. From creating or sourcing the fabric to the production of a garment which finally ends up in my closet at the price of a gazillion Namibia dollars? No, I don’t think ethical fashion is feasible in Namibia at this point.
Name some of the ways in which you recycle/upcycle pieces in your wardrobe. My wardrobe comprises a lot of hand-me-downs from my mom. I recently worked with Namibian fashion designer Miles Meroro on recreating a blazer from my late uncle. The end product My style is was nothing short of magic. A majestic work of art form the genius that Miles is. Whatever meant for the I no longer need or like I hand over to family and friends. streets. If you
In this interview, she talks about her ethos on sustainability in fashion and the ways in which she lives by example… How would you describe your style? I live by my own rules when it comes to style. My style is meant for the streets. If you can imagine the street style at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia, then you’d probably understand me better. I like a very experimental top boy and minimalist look. Medium-to-largesized T-shirts, loose pants, and boy-like shoes.
can imagine the street style at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia, then you’d probably understand me better.
What does ethical fashion mean to you? Ethical fashion means better wages for the people making your garments. It means that fashion brands need to be transparent to us (the consumers), that they indeed consider environmental laws and regulations, seeing that the fashion industry is the biggest contributing factor to climate change issues. Ethical fashion means that as a consumer, we need to educate ourselves and others on how we can reduce our carbon footprint. It also means that we need to call out brands that are harming our environment and say no to fast fashion.
Do you have one tip on style from your mother/elder that is still relevant today? My mother always told me to get timeless and top quality pieces. That way I don’t spend a lot of time or money on meaningless items in my closet. How feasible is sustainable fashion in Namibia? I believe that people have not grasped what fast fashion and what ethical fashion is. It is a very new concept to almost every fourth person I come into contact with. I have had
How can fashionistas become more conscious of the environment? I would advise that you do some research before you buy anything, about where you are buying it from. Read up on organisations such as the Fashion Revolution which have done such a great job at disseminating cool and understandable information on fair, safer, cleaner, more transparent fashion brands and environmentally conscious consumers in the industry.
Disney continues to spread the messages on fashion sustainability, and one of the ways in which she does that is by contributing to strengthening the second-hand clothing industry in Namibia. Her clothing exchange event Swap My Look, which brings together like-minded fashionistas who share ethical principles, is a perfect example. To keep up with Disney’s fashionably responsible life and to join her next Swap My Look event, follow her on Instagram: @disney.andreas. Rukee Kaakunga is a Windhoek-based Concept Engineer, PR Consultant, and fashion writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com and follow her on Twitter @rukeeveni.
31
TH NAMIBIAN NAMIBIAN INDEPEDENCE INDEPEDENCE
Keepers Keepers ofof the the Flame. Flame. Custodians Custodians ofof the the Dream. Dream. 44 Hyper www.tribefirestudios.com Motor Centre, Maxwell Street, Windhoek Callconnect@tribefirestudios.com us at: +26461383450 | info@tribefirestudios.com
3 TIPS AND TRICKS
TO EAT MORE WHOLE-FOOD PLANTS IN 2020
A foods for good.
(without necessarily going all-the-way vegan)
record 400,000 people worldwide signed up to the Veganuary movement this year. While more and more people are switching to a 100% plant-based diet for its health and environmental benefits, it’s important to know that nutrition studies show conflicting findings about the health benefits of strictly quitting animal
repertoire) will adapt and expand in favour of more and more plants on the plate. Become one with beans, nuts and seeds. Beans are a great stand-in for meat in certain recipes, adding heartiness, texture and protein (I put a can of black beans and lentils in my bolognese, no one notices…). Use chickpeas in curries, black beans in chili and tacos, lentils in dal, you get the idea! Seek out less common varieties – there’s a whole world of beans out there waiting for you to discover them. Nuts and seeds are delicious in smoothies and breakfast jars. Evidence suggests that eating nuts and seeds daily can lower inflammation as well as your risk of diabetes and heart disease and could lengthen your life. Eating nuts five to six times a week was linked to a 15% reduction in risk of death, and seven or more times a week to a 20% reduction.
We don’t have all the answers yet (nor do I have enough pages in this column to really get into all the details) but I will say that the vegan propaganda documentaries sprouting up like grains everywhere these days are best enjoyed with a hefty pinch of salt… Our dietary needs are constantly changing and at specific phases in our life we need different nutrients depending on our hormones, the season, our performance goals and our health history. Nutrient deficiencies Here’s what are more common on vegan diets and careful planning is therefore needed. science is not Here’s what science is not conflicted about: Increasing colourful plant food intake is beneficial for pretty much everyone. Veggies have come a long way since boiled broccoli and corn-filled squash, thankfully. In the mainstream culinary world vegetables have moved up from side dish status to lead role on the plate. Even the most finger-licking, rib-obsessed meat lovers have no beef with a meatless Monday every once in a while.
conflicted about: Increasing colourful plant food intake is beneficial for pretty much everyone.
Here are my 3 top tips for making veggies your new norm this year: Focus on the plant-based meals you already enjoy eating. I bet you can think of quite a few dishes you’ve always enjoyed which just happen to be all veg? Things like a good roasted tomato soup or creamy mashed avocado on crunchy homemade seed crackers, or a big colourful Mexican-style burrito bowl with sweet corn, black beans, guac, brown rice and salsa. Make a point of having your existing favourites more frequently and soon your palette (and your cooking
Pick a side of positivity with your produce. Even change that’s good for us can be hard. Often we respond to a dietary change with resistance or even childlike rebellion. We obsess over what we ‘have to give up’ instead of getting curious about all the new things we get to try out. Become aware of how you’re feeling every day (what’s different, if anything, about your energy levels, your sleep quality, your focus, weight, skin... what else?) Get creative in the kitchen and look for interesting new plants outside of your comfort zone (all the varieties of mushrooms, different types of beans, new ways to cook greens, herbs!, all of the world’s curries!)
You’ve got this. It’s only food, get experimental. Let me know how it all goes - @bothsidesbuttered Find Klara on her offbeat Instagram feed (@bothsidesbuttered) where she distills the principles of optimal health down to their most foundational basics, ones that are accessible and easy for us all to follow. Klara is an Integrative Nutritionist and Health Coach with a BSc (Hons) degree from Middlesex University in the UK. She works with corporates and individuals to optimise wellbeing and boost productivity, and she regularly writes for a number of leading health and wellness publications and speaks at events about the physical effects of psychological stress.
33
Y
Enjoy the ride our muscles are burning, sweat stings your eyes, lungs are screaming for breath! But just when you think you can’t go any further, you turn the corner... and here comes the blissful freedom of coasting down the hill, reminding you of all the reasons you got on your bicycle again today.
Thousands of cycling enthusiasts are once again descending on the Cape Peninsula, gearing up for another thrilling Cape Town Cycle Tour: one of the most scenic and well-loved events on the world road-cycling calendar. The health benefits of cycling are well documented, but cycling a significant distance in the summer heat can also take its toll on your body. To help you get the most out of your cycling experience, we’ve put together some of the best tips to help you start out right, enjoy every minute of your ride and recover fast and (relatively!) painlessly. Before your ride: • Ensure your body is well-fuelled. Have a good-sized meal of easily digestible foods like scrambled eggs on whole-wheat toast, yoghurt with nuts, or some oats porridge. • Hydrate well. Staying hydrated helps you to digest your food and keeps your energy levels high. • Make sure you’ve got your whole kit – helmet, cycling shorts, sunglasses, cycling shoes, tool kit, etc., and check your bike to make sure it’s ready for the race, too.
•
Don’t forget the cream! Chamois cream helps prevent saddle sores and reduce friction against your saddle. Sunblock is a must on all the areas of your body that are exposed to sunlight.
During your ride: • If you’re cycling long distances you need to keep replenishing your body’s reserves to ensure you don’t run out of steam. Keep a few energy gels or bars handy and sip fluids (water or a carbohydrate drink, depending on how much gels or bars you are consuming) frequently throughout your ride. • Enjoy the camaraderie, scenery and vibe while you’re out there! After your ride: • Have a long, cool drink and a high protein meal to aid muscle recovery. • Invest in a post-race massage to wind down and help your muscles repair and your body recover quicker. • Keep moving! Don’t give in to the urge to lie down for the rest of the day. Rather walk around at regular intervals to keep stiffness and swelling in your legs at bay. • At the end of the day, make sure you get a good night’s rest. Sleep is our body’s number 1 repair mechanism. Here’s to many enjoyable miles on the road – on and off the bike!
Health tips brought to you by The Namibian Oncology Centre
Care • Support • Hope Our comprehensive service offerings include Clinical and Radiation Oncologists, a Paediatric Oncologist, Radiation therapy services, Chemotherapy services, a dedicated Oncology Pharmacy, Counselling services and an 11-bed cancer care ward including a specialised isolation unit. Tel: +264 (0)83 330 5015 | info@namoncology.com 3 Heliodoor Street, Eros, Windhoek, Namibia
www.namoncology.com
34
Mauritius for the
Beachcomber School Holiday’s Children Under 6 Stay FREE Valid for travel 01 – 11 June 2020 (5 nights) 4 star Mauricia Beachcomber Resort & Spa 1 standard double + extra bed for a child under 6 years 4 star superior Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa 1 superior double (first floor) + extra bed for a child under 18 years
FROM N$ 18 700 per person sharing (pps)
www.trip.com.na
THE
WINDHOEK COLLECTION The Windhoek Collection comprises Windhoek’s most popular eateries: The Stellenbosch Wine Bar & Bistro, The Stellenbosch Tasting Room and The Stellenbosch Market, as well as the self-catering Hillside Executive Accommodation apartments and the newest addition to the high-end accommodation market in the capital - The Windhoek Luxury Suites.
Suites
www.thewindhoek.com | www.hillsidewindhoek.com | www.thestellenboschwinebar.com | www.tastingroom.com.na | www.namwine.com
RAMPANT FIRES – A global threat of global warming
F
ires sparked by natural causes such as lightning and combustion of organic matter are an integral part of the cycle of life of forests, woodlands and scrublands. Many species have evolved to co-exist with fires which stimulate new growth, while at the same time remove old vegetation. Natural fires also play an important role in the recycling of nutrients and the maintenance of biodiversity.
than usual in June 2019. Although fire is a natural event, the “Black Summer” of 2019 was made worse as many fires were lit deliberately and spiralled out of control.
The rampant fires that destroyed vast swathes of forests and woodlands on three continents – Australia, South America and North America – in 2019 have drawn renewed attention to the effects of climate change and illegal forest clearing. Record-breaking temperatures exacerbated by a prolonged drought in Australia resulted in the fire season starting earlier
You may wonder how that affects us here in Namibia. Satellite photos clearly show how plumes of black carbon drifted more than 7,000 km from Australia towards South America. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) the fires emitted 306 million tonnes of carbon dioxide into the air.
36
The Australian fires devastated over 110,000 km² (the size of Namibia’s Hardap Region) of forest and bush, destroyed over 3,000 houses and buildings and killed 33 people, including three firefighters. In early December, Sydney’s air quality measured 11 times the hazardous level.
a climate change sceptic, played down the extent and the impact of the Amazon forest fires. As international pressure mounted, Bolsonaro attacked French President Emmanuel Macron over his “lamentable colonialist stance” after Macron criticised Bolsonaro’s environmental record. In California, which also experiences regular fires, an estimated 5,050 km² of natural vegetation was destroyed in 2018 and 2019. Once again, it has been established that some of these fires were started deliberately. Namibia’s woodlands, which cover less than 20% of the country’s land surface, are restricted to the Ohangwena Region in Owamboland, the two Kavango regions and the Zambezi Region in the far northeast of the country. They range from mixed trees populations and woodlands dominated by characteristic savanna species to shrublands and riverine woodlands. While the extent of fires started deliberately in Namibia’s woodlands is small in comparison to the Australian, Amazon and California fires, it is nevertheless a cause of concern. More than 50% of the surface of the Zambezi and Kavango East regions is set alight each year, mainly to stimulate early growth in a slash-andburn use of land for crop production. These unseasonal Earlier in 2019, fires, which are usually started the world was in the winter, have a profound effect on the forests. Trees shocked by the drastic increase are killed, shrub thickets proliferate, soil fertility is in the number reduced, carbon dioxide is released and wildlife may be of fires in the Amazon forests killed. Frequent unseasonal fires have also changed the – which were composition and cover of the mainly started vegetation in some areas.
deliberately for forest clearing and illegal logging.
Millions of animals were incinerated by the fires. The University of Sydney estimates that the actual figure for birds, mammals and reptiles (excluding insects, frogs and bats) could be as high as one billion. In the state of New South Wales, which experienced the most fires, an estimated third of the koalas may have been killed and a third of their habitat has been destroyed. Earlier in 2019, the world was shocked by the drastic increase in the number of fires in the Amazon forests – which were mainly started deliberately for forest clearing and illegal logging. By August last year, a total of 30,901 fires were raging in the Amazon forests – three times more than in the same month in 2018 – and an estimated 70,000 km² of forest were destroyed. Much to the indignation of environmentalists and several world leaders, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro,
So what’s the fuss all about then? Forests and woodlands play an essential role in the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, while rainforests such as the Amazon controls local and regional climate, including rainfall. Most importantly, forests host 80% of the earth’s terrestrial biodiversity. And they are home to countless millions of people who utilise a wide variety of natural resources such as wood for building material and the crafting of domestic implements, as well as indigenous fruit, while various parts of trees have medicinal uses. Some trees and forests are of special cultural importance and are revered. For city dwellers, forests and woodlands are refuges that offer peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Places where they can simply relax or indulge in bird watching or game viewing. Namibian freelance journalist and travel writer: Willie Olivier
37
NETWORK
FEATURING
Latest Business News The Economy Government Ministries Private And Public Service Institutions Business & Proffessional Organizations Diplomatic Missions, Parastatals & Local Authorities
ANNUAL REVIEW OF NAMIBIAN TRADE & INDUSTRY MULTI-PLATFORM MEDIA NETWORK OF BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS & TRADERELATED INFORMATION, PROMOTING AND ENCOURAGING LOCAL AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT ANNUAL PORTFOLIO • WEBSITE • E-BOOK FORMAT • THE ECONOMIC PULSE • SOCIAL MEDIA
SERVICES
Content Creation Social Media Management Graphic Design Digital Innovation Corporate Video’s
PART OF THE VENTURE MEDIA GROUP 38
www.namibiatradedirectory.com | elmarie@venture.com.na | +264 61 383 450
We Need To Talk About
Namibian Stereotypes
Three Namibian myths floating around in popular discourse are totally debunked.
A
lbert Einstein is credited with saying many wise things. There are, however, many sayings the world-changing physicist never uttered. For example, one of them is this: Namibians will arrive when they are here.
the country, “sweltering” and “stifling” do admirable jobs of trying to encapsulate the high summer conditions, while in the deep south, various Afrikaans expletives which cannot be printed on these respectable pages will more accurately reflect one’s feelings about the weather.
The genius in the statement is immediately obvious, and it is easy to see why Einstein could be believed to have made such an observation. Taking friction as a force (F) which slows down acceleration; factoring in gravitational pull (G); multiplying that with the number of expected guests (RSVP); dividing the resulting number with the need for an event to start on time (Asseblief tog!); and cubing that with the actual time at which most people begin to get ready for events (“Yes, yes. I’m just around the corner!”) yields the following answer: they will be here when they are here.
There is nothing to do. This generalisation is made mostly by jet-setters used to travelling to cosmopolitan capitals or metropolitan megalopolises in which festivals, sporting events and cultural calendars are now in their hundredth iteration; places in which things are either done for them, or where things are already happening by the time the plane’s wheels touch down. By such comparisons, nothing would be ‘quite a lot’ by Namibian standards.
Locally, though, there are any number of cultural activities in which to partake. The theatre and the performing arts scene might be small but continue to produce enriching work; the social dancing scene, a monthly staple in the capital, has held steady for four years now; and there is a handful of restaurants which cater to various tastes. Also, gluten-free and lactose intolerant persons will be delighted to know their maladies have been deescalated from not that lifestyle choice status, and can now find food is nothing options on various menus.
With Einstein being preoccupied with physics and time and whatnot, it is easy to assume he discovered this local genius. Not so. This exquisite wisdom comes from none other than Namibians themselves. What Einstein can be credited with, though, is the following: “If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” Now that is the darnest true. When making comparisons, it is essential to compare apples with apples, oranges with oranges, and whatever one saw, ate, heard, or experienced in London with exactly what one saw, ate, heard, or experienced in London. Not Madrid. Not New York. Not Kuala Lumpur. Certainly, not Windhoek, or any other place in Namibia. The logic is sound: mopane worms must be compared to mopane worms, and South Africa’s excuse for biltong cannot be compared to the much superior quality of dried meat which Namibia offers.
It is there to do. It is that in Namibia, if you want something, you have to go out and look for it yourself.
Thank you, Einstein. With that said, three common myths about Namibia need to be dispelled. There is only one type of heat in Namibia. This is not true. Only temporary sojourners are unable to distinguish between the rich array of weather conditions in this country. “Sunny” is used to describe a very thin window of sunshine – typically between 07h00 and 07h15. Thereafter, “hot” is used. At 09h00, “scorching” is an accurate way of describing the effect of the sun on anything that moves. Later, in the day, “stifling”, “torrid”, “searing” and “withering” are good ways to describe the temperature changes every two or three hours. However, it should be stressed that descriptions differ according to geographic location. Thus, in the far north of
It is not that there is nothing to do. It is that in Namibia, if you want something, you have to go out and look for it yourself.
There is no customer service. This statement needs clarification. For there to be customer service, there would have to be “customers” in their conventional sense. Since everyone is related to everyone else, or everyone knows everyone else, everybody is treated in one of two ways: a) as a distant but unknown cousin (meaning with politeness and some curiosity) or b) a close and despised cousin (meaning with indifference and a go-get-it-yourself attitude). Knowing which side of the cousin divide one belongs in will prevent misunderstandings in numerous transactional dealings. More myths abound about Namibia, too many to list here. One would need, say, a Nobel Prize lecture to fully encompass the array of relative untruths about the beloved land of savannahs. But, for now, respect and homage needs to be paid to Einstein’s wisdom: if you compare a country to a dream, it will spend all of its time trying to wake up. Rémy Ngamije is a Rwandan-born Namibian novelist, columnist, essayist, short-story writer, and photographer. His debut novel The Eternal Audience Of One is available from Blackbird Books and Amazon. His short stories have appeared in Litro Magazine, AFREADA, The Johannesburg Review of Books, The Amistad, The Kalahari Review, American Chordata, Doek!, and Azure. More of his writing can be read on his website: remythequill.com
39
A SPECIAL EDITION FLYWESTAIR MOHENN TRAVEL DUFFLE
Take an awesome photo on your flight with us (the view, yourself, our crew, anything!) In the caption, tell us why you fly with FlyWestair Tag FlyWestair on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter (or send your image to fly@venture.com.na) The winning image will be selected by a panel of FlyWestair judges. You can enter as many times as you want. Entries close 27 March and the winners will be announced on 3 April 2020. Follow @mohenn_ on Instagram to check out his stunning range of luxury leather goods.
We’ve received many great entries so far! Why do fly with FlyWestair?
Such friendly crew on my flight to Cape Town in October 2019 Theresa Serfontein
The reason why I fly with @fly_westair is that it’s very affordable and the service is amazing. - @gorgeous_tangi
40
I choose Westair because I feel like royalty when I fly with them! Mathilde Brassine
Thank you for your professional service, friendly staff onboard and ensuring my safe, smooth return back home @fly_westair Couldn’t have ended an amazing weekend spent in Cape Town on any better note! Here’s to plenty more trips with you #flywestair - @binxx10
A spectacular view of the clouds #FlyWestair - @sunnykemma
I feel the same in the air than on the ground - Gideon K. Muremi
Back to the grind, to start another rotation offshore Namibia ! Cape Town to Oranjemund with @fly_westair ‘s Tatekulu Embraer ERJ 145 - @csfluffy
Ondangwa with a full rainbow It was my first time flying with Westair and I will definitely fly again. The attention to detail goes a long way, with a fresh, mini croissant for breakfast and then a mini Fairview cheese platter + Ferrero Rocher on the evening flight. - @itsdanifaria
Contagious emotions
H
ave you ever felt the emotional pain of your loved ones, friends, or even strangers? It’s not something we regularly pay attention to, but if you start to look for it, you’ll find that your own emotional state responds to the people around you. This is because emotions are contagious. We catch emotions, perhaps with a lot more ease than catching a common cold. Science explains this as the process in which either a person or a group affects the behaviour of another person or group, through conscious or unconscious emotions. It’s called the emotional contagion. It’s also something we are mostly unaware of, as we often don’t realise how much our own emotions are influenced by the emotional states of others. This phenomenon is also created through mirror neurons in our brains, which help us understand what someone else is experiencing. They work by comparing other people’s behaviour through the lens of our own past experiences. Mirror neurons are also responsible for helping us to learn new things when we have something new demonstrated to us, and they are the reason yawns and laughs are contagious.
negativity around you has the same effect on the body as constant negativity within you. This may seem like bad news, but awareness is your emotional face mask to contagious emotions. Asking yourself “in what direction are my emotions being influenced” will help you to become aware of what type of emotions you are absorbing. When you notice a heavy emotion, label what it is that you feel. This labelling helps to bring us into a state of pause, which in turn can help us to gain a little distance from the emotional experience for a moment. If awareness is your emotional face mask, then self-care is your oxygen. There is a reason why self-care gets promoted endlessly. One of its many benefits includes emotional regulation. If we want to stop absorbing the emotional baggage of others, it all starts with taking care of our own physical, social, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. When our own immune system or energy is depleted, we become a sponge for other people’s emotions. Prioritising this selfcare is the first step in avoiding or overcoming emotional depletion or exhaustion.
We catch emotions, perhaps with a lot more ease than catching a common cold.
The concerning part of this knowledge is that science also shows us that negative emotions are a lot easier to catch than positive ones. It is thought that this has to do with adaptations to survival, where being attuned to other people’s negative emotions (pain or fear) was directly linked to our survival. So maybe by now you are taking stock of the people you spend most of your time with, and wondering if their bad mood is affecting you. If you are surrounded by negative emotions, these second-hand emotions can have significant, long-lasting effects on your health and well-being. Constant
You have a right to care for yourself. In fact, you are the one person most perfectly positioned to care for yourself, and the one that knows most accurately what you yourself need.
One more tip: If you find yourself surrounded by nasty, negative and also contagious emotions, close your eyes and take a deep breath, notice where in your body you feel the most calm and grounded, and stay in this space for a few breaths. Coming back to our centre is what reminds us that our stuff is ours, and other people’s is their own. Kirsty Watermeyer Kirsty is a Yoga and Meditation Coach, a Transformation Facilitator and Writer. Contact her at kirsty@seednamibia.com
41
42
Photography Feature:
PHOTOS OF HOPE FOR THE HOPELESS
S
usan Nel, based in Windhoek, has been a professional photographer for the past 14 years. She became fascinated with the medium of photography at the age of 11 and expanded her skills during her university years while studying for a marketing degree.
“I started out with documentary wedding photography. Then I moved my focus to the corporate world, shooting mostly portraits and campaign photographs for various Namibian companies. I assisted small enterprises with marketing strategies and in 2018 I changed my job description to ‘content creator’. I also invest my energy in a newly launched website, called www.braveart.com.na, for local photographers to publish, showcase and sell their art online. The Braveart website won the Innovation Award of the Development Bank of Namibia in November 2018. As a firm believer in living a creative life, I created the platform to assist others to create and sell. On a personal level, and staying true to my creative living theory, I also started a small business where I print photographs on home decor – a recent, but successful addition to my activities. My heart and passion, however, have always been in making a social impact. Therefore, probono photography (2010 – 2017) eventually lead to full-time photography on social responsibility and sustainable initiatives in Namibia. In 2017 I became a board member of S.P.E.S., a non-profit organisation, where I also photograph the success stories for our sponsors to experience the hope that S.P.E.S. brings to a community that could be described as hopeless. S.P.E.S. Charity, Step out of Poverty through Education, Encouragement and Support, was created with the ultimate aim of helping less fortunate children and youth in Namibia. The organisation aims to create environments in which its beneficiaries will have the opportunity to develop and grow through sustainable change, and without over-reliance on others. S.P.E.S. supports over 1700 children and 80 teachers with basic needs such as food, stationary and teaching aids for educational needs, and even cleaning materials to keep preschools hygienic, and so much more. Learn more at www.spescharity.com.
43
44
Website: www.susannelphotography.com Facebook: @susannelphotography Instagram: @susannelphotography
Susan’s first public exhibition, called HOPE, was showcased in February 2020 and proudly sponsored by the Capricorn Investment Group. The proceeds were earmarked for the benefit of S.P.E.S. and raising awareness of social responsibility in Namibia. “Capricorn Group is proud to support the HOPE photography exhibition as a partner of S.P.E.S. Charity. We are inspired by the message of hope portrayed through the photographs. As a truly Namibian financial services group, we are committed to be connectors of positive change,” Marlize Horn, Executive Officer: Brand & Corporate Affairs.
45
advertorial
Standard Bank Sky Lounge at Eros Airport
S
ituated in the heart of the Namibian capital Windhoek, Eros Airport is to many Namibians a modern meeting place. It is a place where tourists, politicians, bankers, lawyers, miners, families and aviation enthusiasts come together. All having a common need or interest in aviation or to just travel by air. Eros Airport does not carry its relevance in terms of its share of global air passenger volumes; it does however carry enormous relevance in Namibia for Namibia. On a daily basis scheduled passenger flights operate out of Eros Airport linking the Namibian capital with Ondangwa, Rundu, Katima Mulilo, Walvis Bay and Oranjemund. Passengers are Namibian icons, role players, movers and shakers with some returning home to North for the weekend, whilst others may return from their latest development project at the coast. Eros Airport is also the corporate airport of choice for most business and corporate aircraft entering and leaving Namibia. Business jets from around the world carrying high net worth individuals, corporate executives and politicians descend into Eros as the most convenient corporate airport in Namibia.
The Standard Bank Sky Lounge is the first and only available passenger leisure and VIP lounge facility at Eros Airport. Having identified a need for luxury facilities aimed at the executive end of the Namibian domestic and international passengers; Standard Bank Sky Lounge is positioned to service all local and international VIP passengers moving through Eros Airport. The Lounge is situated on the top floor of the terminal building with views out onto the flight line and mountains surrounding Windhoek. Services inside the lounge includes free wifi, bar service, coffee supplied by Deluxe Coffeeworks and a wide variety of food and entertainment options.
46
Offering to passengers and lounge visitors a comfortable and relaxed airport experience with comfortable seating and facilities. Passengers are greeted at the check in counter. Ushered to the lounge and when it is time for their departure; taken by a Sky Lounge representative through security screening to the aircraft. Aimed at offering a hassle and stress free travel experience.
For further information or bookings you can reach us at: Standard Bank Sky Lounge and Cafe - Eros Airport 081 124 1575/081 291 4362 annagret@theskylounge.net/ jamie@theskylounge.net
Spectator or a Player? For schools, clubs and individuals.
www.renniestravelnamibia.com.na leisure@renniestravel.com.na +264 61 289 0760
FOR BOOKINGS O R EN Q U I R I E S Call CRO on (0) 61 209 0300 or email cro@proteahotels.com.na
47
BALI
MALDIVES
OUR PACKAGES THAILAND
SEYCHELLES
ZANZIBAR
MAURITIUS
Tel: +264 61 250 077 Fax: +264 61 250 030 Cel: +264 81 418 6874 Email: bookings@elitetravel.com.na
www.elitetravel.com.na
This is us.
extraordinary Namibian stories. TRAVEL NEWS
A Manufacturing Basket filled with Opportunities...
BIRDING:
NETWORK
SNAKE EAGLES
TRAVEL NEWS
Namibia
BIRDING:
Coast GINNING AT THE
ON A STUDENT BUDGET
THE TINY TOWN OF UIS
Coast GINNING AT THE
THE TINY TOWN OF UIS
SNAKE EAGLES
Namibia
Iona
Skeleton Coast TRANSFRONTIER PARK
FEATURED:
N$45.00 incl. VAT R45.00 incl. VAT
Skeleton Coast
Promoting and supporting conservation of the natural environment.
TRANSFRONTIER PARK
A membership-based organisation established as a voluntary association to support and promote the interests of environmental NGOs and their work to protect Namibia’s environment, biodiversity and landscapes. The NCE currently has 65 members and associate members, comprising environmental NGOs and individuals running nationally significant environmental projects and programmes.
www.travelnewsnamibia.com
Vol 28
www.travelnewsnamibia.com
CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA
Iona
CONSERVATION AND THE ENVIRONMENT IN NAMIBIA
A R E N A M I B I A’ S C A R N I VO R E S AT R I S K?
A R E N A M I B I A’ S C A R N I VO R E S AT R I S K?
MINING AND THE
ENVIRONMENT H U M A N -W I L D L I F E
48
Xenia Ivanhoff-Erb
CONFLICT
Also proudly supported by:
GA INING INSIGHTS INTO GAINING INSIGHTS INTO
2019
READ ONLINE
publishers.
2019/20
content creators. selfie takers. editors. snapchatters. travellers. managers. apsiring rhino savers. bloggers.
www.n-c-e.org
Anchor Sponsor:
social media fundies.
designers.
FEATURED:
VOLUME 28 No 2 AUTUMN 2020
N$45.00 incl. VAT R45.00 incl. VAT
VOLUME 28 No 2 AUTUMN 2020
A review of Namibian Trade and Industry
Namibia
THE GREEN ECONOMY
ON A STUDENT BUDGET
photographers. coffee drinkers.
chatters.
NAMIBIA TRADE DIRECTORY 2019/20
Namibia
avid campers.
THE SECRET LIVES OF WILD ANIMALS
film makers. explorers. writers. rule breakers.
Did you know?
Facts about the North Let’s start with the trees The Makalani Palm (Hyphaene petersiana) is without doubt the most iconic tree of Owamboland, where it is known as the Omulunga. Few people, however, are aware that the Omusati Region has the world’s highest density of monumental African baobabs (Adansonia digitata). Only baobabs with a circumference of more than 20 m qualify for the status of monumental and a group of international researchers has identified at least 12 baobabs that meet this criterion in the region. The largest specimen, Sir Howard’s Baobab at Tsandi, has a circumference of 31.6 m at breast height and a height of 23.8 m. The region’s best-known baobab, the Ombalantu Baobab at Outapi, is overshadowed by a specimen with a circumference of 30.6 m and a height of 22.1 m on the town’s western outskirts. Then the Finns arrived The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the Finnish Mission Society in Owamboland. Although the site of the historic Nakambale mission house, church and cemetery at Olukonda is most frequently associated with the society’s missionary endeavours, it was not the first mission station in Owamboland. The first one was established at Omandongo where a divine service was held on 10 July 1870 – the date which marks the introduction of Christianity to Owamboland. Olukonda, the second Finnish mission station in Owambo, was established just over a year later – on 29 July 1871. Nakambale is the Oshindonga name of the most famous Finnish missionary in Owamboland, Martti Rautanen. The name refers to the resemblance of the skullcap that Rautanen wore to an okambale – a palm leaf basket in Oshindonga. While Rautanen is best remembered for his missionary work and the translation of the New and Old Testament, hymns and other religious texts, he was also an ardent amateur botanist. He collected the type specimen of the Manketti (Schinziophyton rautanenii) at Okalolo, about 3 km south of Olukonda in November 1896. Two plant genera have also been named after him, as well as several species he collected. Onandjokwe’s list of firsts Onandjokwe, now merely a suburb of Oniipa, which was proclaimed a town only in April 2015, boasts several ‘firsts’. The first hospital in northern Namibia was built there in 1911. It was also the first building with a corrugated iron roof which became the source of great consternation among the people. Rumours began spreading that because the roof pointed to the heavens it would prevent rain from falling. Fortunately these rumours were quickly dispelled. Other firsts for Onandjokwe are: the establishment of a mission school for women in 1921 and a school for nursing assistants in 1930. Oshiwambo is commonly, but incorrectly, assumed to be the language of the Aawambo. It is in fact a cluster of closely related dialects. Oshindonga, which is close to other dialects and understood by most people, is used for administrative purposes, in churches and taught in schools in Owamboland, while Oshikwanyama is used in Uukwanyama area. Willie Olivier FlyWestair’s Embraer flies north from Windhoek to Ondangwa every weekday and Sundays. Willie Olivier gathered some interesting fast facts about the central northern region of Namibia. If you want to add to the list, send us your ideas to fly@venture.com.na or tag FlyWestair on social media and it will be included in the next issues.
49
W
Aviatrix
‘There’s more to life than being a passenger’ omen pilots, also called “aviatrices” (singular: aviatrix).
Women have been behind the scenes in aviation since 1908. Amelia Earhart, who became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean in 1928, brought women into the spotlight. Shortly thereafter, in 1942, the Women Airforce Service Pilots organisation, or (WASP), was formed. WASP was a civilian women pilots’ organisation whose members were United States federal civil service employees. Members of WASP became trained pilots who tested and ferried aircraft, as well as trained other pilots. Their purpose was to free male pilots for combat roles during World War II. Notably a hugely important role, but nevertheless still behind the scenes. The International Society of Women Airline Pilots recently estimated that a mere 3% to 6% of the pilots in large commercial airlines are women. Until recently a pilot was always associated with a male figure. And sure enough, the industry is dominated by men, but for how much longer will this be the case? The number of aviatrices is growing and the industry is taking notice. Aviation is not for the faint-hearted but women, being known to be more detail orientated, are bringing balance
50
to the flight deck. This can be taken even further. On 17 December 2017 the entire crew of an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 777 consisted of women only. That’s right, two pilots and seven cabin crew members, all of them women! Join the ever growing aviatrix fraternity by signing up with Signa Aviation Services today! We offer flight training, cabin crew training, and all maintenance training. ‘There’s more to life than just being a passenger’ - Amelia Earhart Website: www.signaaviation.com Office: +264 83 339 0094 Email: info@signaaviation.com
Celebrating 30 Years of Independence
Celebrating 30 Years of Independence:
LAST PIECE OF THE PUZZLE
W
hen Namibia gained its independence in 1990 there was still something missing on the map. South of the Swakop River there was an 1124 km2 hole where Walvis Bay should be. Why did South Africa cling to this enclave and why did Namibia want it unified with the rest of the country?
would place Soviet naval bombers and reconnaissance planes within range to control most of the Southern Atlantic and its critical sea routes. For this reason, South Africa could not immediately jettison Walvis Bay in 1990. The Namibian government felt, and rightly so, that Walvis Bay and its people belonged to Namibia. At the same time, the country was being denied a valuable economic asset. This was proven when the Trans-Caprivi and Trans-Kalahari highways opened in 1999 and 1998 respectively. These roads link landlocked African countries to Walvis Bay, giving its port vital economic importance.
Walvis Bay was claimed by the Cape Colony back in 1795 but was only formally annexed by Britain in 1878 to prevent Germany from claiming this strategic natural deep-water harbour. In 1910 Rarely in the it became part of the Union of South Africa history of mankind on its formation. After the Great War, the rest does a time of South West Africa was added onto Walvis come when all Bay to be administered by South Africa as a mandated territory. Realising the political tides the parties to were changing and preempting possible formal a conflict can sanctions, South Africa decided in 1977 to return truly claim to be the harbour to the Cape Province. Slick move… victorious. The Only the UN didn’t think so and demanded that Walvis Bay’s annexation be revoked, stating return of Walvis in its General Assembly resolution 32/9 D that Bay and offshore the area is an integral part of Namibia. But at islands by South independence, South Africa still would not let go.
Africa to Namibia
By 1992, however, the Cold War had ended and maintaining a far away base had become a financial headache to the South African government. The writing was also on the wall that white rule in the country was going to end soon and holding on to a piece of land that’s more than 600 km north of your border is aimless. During negotiations between the two governments in August 1993, South Africa finally agreed to relinquish sovereignty over Walvis Bay to Namibia. “Rarely in the history of mankind does a time come when all the parties to a conflict can truly claim to be victorious. The return of Walvis Bay and offshore islands by South Africa to Namibia is one such moment in history,” said then Prime Minister Hage Geingob on the eve of the handover.
Calling it the enclave, South Africa held onto is one such Walvis Bay for another four years, administering moment in history, it from Cape Town as a part of South Africa, even though the harbour is situated in the centre of Namibia’s Atlantic coastline. The ridiculousness of this situation was manifested by a border In front of a packed Kuisebmond Stadium, dignitaries post and a large sign welcoming visitors to South Africa from all over Africa, Founding President Sam Nujoma, and when entering the enclave. South African Justice and Defence Minister Kobie Coetzee representing his president, FW de Klerk, the South African flag Walvis Bay’s great strategic importance on a long stretch of was lowered at midnight on 28 February 1994. In the morning arid and dangerous coastline that has no natural deepwater residents for the first time woke up under the Namibian flag, harbours had been recognised by the British 200 years prior. For knowing that the last puzzle piece that made up Namibia the same reason they denied the harbour to Germany. During was firmly in its rightful place. the Cold War, Walvis Bay was seen as a valuable forward base not only because of the deepsea harbour but also because it Le Roux van Schalkwyk
51
LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, NOTARIES & CONVEYANCERS +264 61 38 8850 | info@ferasmuslaw.com.na | 5 Conradie street | Windhoek
PRACTICAL WISDOM, TRUSTED ADVICE
GRETHA DOS SANTOS PROPERTY PRACTITIONER RESIDENTIAL SALES SPECIALIST
stitched by hand in Namibia @barkdesign
+264 61 40 1494 reservations@rivercrossing.com.na www.rivercrossing.com.na
061 22 0673 +264 81 284 3180 Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo, 63 Suiderhof, Windhoek, 9000
Namibia Property Appraisers CC
Accredited at all major Financial Institutions
52
Accredited Assessments Residential properties Commercial properties Industrial properties Agricultural valuations Sworn valuations
Principal Valuer Adri Holz National Diploma: Real Estate (Technicon South Africa) Sworn Appraiser
Windhoek Office +264 81 127 1221 info@namibiaprop.biz Gobabis Office +264 81 128 8655 rural@namibiaprop.biz
NAKARA SHOP WINDHOEK Gustav Voigts Centre Independence Avenue 131 Tel/Fax 061 224 209 Email: info@nakara.na NAKARA SWAKOPMUND The Arcade, Tel/Fax: +264 64 405 907 NAKARA FACTORY WINDHOEK 3 Solingen Str. Northern Industrial Tel +264 61 429 100
www.nakara-namibia.com
INVESTING IN A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR ALL NAMIBIANS Debmarine Namibia is proud to be a global leader in marine diamond recovery.
